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Satyendra Pathak
Doha
QATAR Airways (QA) on Monday announced that it has enhanced its highly-successful sponsorship of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship electric street racing series.
The new three-season deal will see QA continue its title sponsorship of the Paris E-Prix, which takes place on April 28 after the tremendously successful 2017 Qatar Airways Paris E-Prix last year, as well as now being title sponsor of the New York City E-Prix, which takes place on July 14 and 15,this year.
The enhanced partnership also means QA will become the official airline partner for the Rome E-Prix on April 14, and the Berlin E-Prix on May 19,this year.
Addressing a press conference in Doha to announce the extension of sponsorship, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar al Baker said:"As an airline which is always ahead of the curve and driven to innovate, it makes perfect sense for us to expand our partnership for flagship events this season as the official airline partner of the future of motor racing, through Formula E. With its ability to deliver thrilling racing events using the very latest environmentally-friendly technology, Formula E has demonstrated that this incredible sport is continuing to set the pace and win more new fans wherever their races take place. We are delighted to continue our support, and as an airline are committed to bringing people together through sport around the world."
Asked if Qatar will host one round of Formula E, Baker said:"Yes, we will have a race in Qatar. It is just a matter of logistics. Once we finalise talks with competent authorities, we will announce it."
He further said the popularity of Formula E will keep on increasing especially when a major power generation company like ABB and big car brands like BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Porsche are getting attached with it.
Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Formula-E Alejandro Agag, who also addressed the media, said:"After another enthralling season last year, we are delighted that Qatar Airways has reaffirmed its commitment to Formula E by extending its partnership and becoming race title partner of not only the Paris E-Prix, but for this season, the New York City E-Prix as well. Our shared passion to strive for excellence and innovation will once again see the series make history in the some of the world's most recognisable cities."
